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Abstract
Critical questions arise about misunderstandings of genetics. We interviewed for 2 h each, 64 individuals who had or were at risk for Huntingtonís disease (HD), breast cancer or Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. These individuals revealed various misunderstandings that can affect coping, and testing, treatment and reproductive decisions. A therapeutic misconception about testing appeared: that testing would be helpful in and of itself. Many believed they could control genetic disorders (even HD), yet these beliefs were often incorrect, and could impede coping, testing, and treatment. Misunderstandings about statistics and genetics often fueled each other, and reflected denial, and desires for hope and control. Emotional needs can thus outweigh understandings of genetics and statistics, and providersí input. Individuals often maintained non-scientific beliefs, though embarrassed by these. These data have implications for care, and public and professional education. Misunderstandingsí persistence, despite realization of their inaccuracy, suggests that providers need to address not just cognitive facts, but underlying emotional issues.

Sharon, mother of identical twin girls with scoliosis

No island of sanity.

Question: What do you call alternative medicine that works?Answer: Medicine

Sharon, this paper is so heavy (for me)....and I do agree with everything except that not all humans have 46 chromosomes. I have a 47XXXY brother.....understanding aneuploidy takes on a new meaning, itís a difficult subject matter. I try, and I forget now, the material is intense.

This paper is also very long and needs plenty of thought.....and in any decision or attempt at understanding, what happens is misconception, misinterpretation, and misunderstanding, always has that emotional factor built in which makes things all so difficult......If a doctor or counselor has it wrong, it becomes a train wreck. I hate the word blame, does it always have to be somebodyís fault?

In my case,(scoliosis) I never ever assigned any blame.....It never mattered, it shouldnít matter. I guess thatís just me.

With all the things that happen around here, mainly complications from spine surgery, even if the odds or chances are small, Lindaís wisdom in one of her posts many years ago taught me that it only matters if it happens to you. We see this everyday. We cant dodge that bullet everytime....

Well, its confirmed, she will practice for another year, then go on to another fellowship in pediatric surgery. She knows damn well about scoliosis from me, saw that it saved my life which affected her decision since I talked so highly of my surgeons, but she wants to save kids lives in an ER setting. The thing is that we donít know where this will happen, she will apply and know more in August. She eventually wants to return to Reno at some point.

I am a bit overwhelmed with all the logistics of the wedding....all the ladies are calling me with all sorts of instructions on when and where....Of course, I always reply with Iím ready for Sunday when the wedding is Saturday, and it makes them freak out. (smiley face) Its going to be a Wedding Singer weekend.....(smiley face)